The play described below is provided for your review and discussion. The rulings given are based on NFHS rules. NCAA rulings may be different.
Late in a close game, Team A takes a timeout. After the timeout only four players return to the court for Team A and the ball is put into play. After the ball is in play, the coach of Team A notices that there are only four players on the court and sends A-5 into the game from the bench.
Handle the situation.
This results in a team technical foul. Team B will be awarded two free throws and the ball at the division line for a designated spot throw-in. The head coach does not lose the use of the coaching box. To quote the case book play on this subject, “While it is true the entire team may be off the court…,once a team responds, all players must enter the court at approximately the same time.”
The officials can usually avoid this situation by counting the players on both teams on the court before putting the ball into play. Of course, if a team delays returning to the court at the end of the timeout, this is not possible.
(References: 10-2-5, Case Book Situation 10.2.5)
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Very Good Play. Yes, we as Officials, need to make sure we have the correct number of
players for both Teams, before we start. Thanks!